Messer Chups is an experimental surf-rock band formed in 1998 in Saint Petersburg, Russia, by guitarist and composer Oleg Gitarkin (also known as "Guitaracula"). The group’s name combines the German word Messer (knife) with Chups (from the Chupa Chups lollipop).
The Electric Zombierella EP is on Hi-Tide Recordings, pressed on limited-edition electric-orange vinyl. Only 500 copies are available.
“Mad Monster Party” opens with a sultry saxophone and soft guitar twang. Svetlana "Zombierella" Nagaeva begins singing with her distinct intonations. She sounds sophisticated and alluring even though this is about monsters! The atmosphere is mysterious and anticipatory.
“El Popcorno” changes things dramatically with a retro, in-the-tank surf instrumental sound. The guitar work is melodic, while the bass and percussion provide unobtrusive yet effective accompaniment. Nice energy.
“Electric Zombierella” brings back the vocals, with infused saxophone, a strong rhythm, cool sound effects, and more retro guitar picking. The drums and bass stay steady but subdued until a short solo burst, then the core rhythm returns, with the sax adding an extra layer of spice.
“Green Sleeves” is a well-known track with a very distinct melody. Bands across genres have covered it over the decades. This time, it is bathed in surf twang and reverb. They wind it up with a tribal drum passage to close out the EP.
Electric Zombierella may be brief, but it expertly shows Messer Chups' eclectic strengths and musical versatility. While vocals are uncommon in the surf instrumental genre, their inclusion here adds a fresh twist, and the alternating vocal and instrumental tracks keep the listening experience dynamic. The EP’s distinctive mix of styles and influences sets Messer Chups apart, highlighting both the band’s originality and the release’s lasting impact.
The Band:
Oleg "Guitaracula" Gitarkin: Founder, primary songwriter, and lead guitarist.
Svetlana "Zombierella" Nagaeva: Joined in 2005 on bass and occasional vocals, becoming a central figure and face of the band.
Drums: The lineup has featured various drummers over time, including Evgeny Lomakin ("Rocking Eugene") and Signor Mattia.
Keith “MuzikMan”
Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
October 9, 2026
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